TechNet, the national, bipartisan network of innovation
economy CEOs and senior executives, today issued the following statement in
response the series of immigration-related executive orders released by the new
Administration. The statement can be attributed
to Linda Moore, president and CEO of TechNet.
“Over the past few
days, the new Administration has put in place executive orders that single out
individuals based on their country of origin, without regard to their
background and work history. We recognize
and support efforts to fight terrorism.
However, we believe these measures create considerable uncertainty in
our nation’s immigration system and will adversely impact technology workers
who live and work in our nation.
Furthermore, TechNet opposes all discrimination, including on the basis
of race, religion, and country of origin.”
“Over the past
decade, a consensus has emerged that our nation’s immigration system is in
serious need of reform. That is why
TechNet is a strong advocate for changes to our immigration system that will
ensure the best, brightest, and most ambitious individuals from around the
world can work in the U.S., helping to advance American innovation, job
creation, and economic growth.
Immigrants or the children of immigrants have started more than 40
percent of Fortune 500 companies. These
companies employ more than 10 million people.”
“Instead of the
approach taken by the Administration, we stand ready to work with Congress and
the Administration on immigration reform legislation that supports the needs of
our economy and the values of our nation.”